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Updated 21:42 IST, January 8th 2024

Pakistani cricketer supports India amid Maldives diplomatic row, promotes Lakshadweep for tourism

The Maldivian government has suspended three deputy ministers for their distasteful remarks against PM Modi and India.

Reported by: Vishal Tiwari
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PM Modi in Lakshdweep
PM Modi | Image: X

The recent diplomatic dispute between India and the Maldives has garnered significant attention over the last few days, triggered by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Indian island of Lakshadweep to boost tourism within the country. Following the visit, several top officials from the Maldivian government criticized PM Modi through derogatory remarks on social media. 

3 things you need to know

  • The Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Maldivian ambassador to India on Monday
  • The Maldivian government has suspended three deputy ministers for their distasteful remarks
  • Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has supported India in the latest diplomatic row

They speculated that the visit may have been aimed at positioning Lakshadweep as a potential alternative destination to the Maldives. It's worth noting that the Maldives heavily relies on the hospitality industry, with a substantial portion of its tourists coming from India.

The offensive comments made by high-ranking Maldivian politicians against PM Modi led to a response from Indian social media users and various celebrities, urging fellow Indians to choose Indian beaches over visiting the Maldives. This call for boycott gained momentum, resulting in Maldivian government to issue a response.

Pakistan cricketer supports India amid Maldives-Lakshadweep row

Now, former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has issued a statement, supporting India in the latest diplomatic row. Kaneria took to the social media platform, X, where he wrote Lakshadweep with a fire emoticon. The post shows Kaneria's support for India as he called on people to visit the Indian island as their next tourist destination.  

Published 21:42 IST, January 8th 2024